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                                                                                                           07/10/21
Key Updates
Business people working on laptop computers
Last Chance to Join an Expert Panel Supporting Businesses in Crisis: We’ve extended the deadline to register to join the expert panel providing specialist support and intervention to businesses in crisis as a result of the pandemic. Complete this form to register your expression of interest and receive a supplier information pack. For further details, please email the Westminster Business Unit or call on 020 7641 2070.
Bringing Colour to the Roof of Temple: The half-acre roof terrace on top of Temple Underground Station has become home to a colourful artistic installation by Lakwena Maciver. Renowned for her rich colourful palettes, dynamic designs and profound messages, Lakwena’s creativity expands across an immersive floor space that invites the public to wander and enjoy. Visitors can also enjoy a specially constructed artist’s hub that offers a safe space, a theme Lakwena focused on for her ‘HomePlace’ work during lockdown. The installation is free to visit and open until 30 April 2022. Find out more details here.
Get exclusive 1-to-1 Property Advice for Westminster Businesses: Renting a property can be an expensive and complex part of running a business. The London Business Hub is currently offering Westminster-based businesses an exclusive Property Advice Service providing free, tailored one-to-one advice sessions on issues such as lease negotiations or how to handle talks with Local Authorities. Register here and the team will be in touch with you to organise your specific session.
Open4Funding promotional banner showing businessmen looking over an architectural planning document
An Easy Way to Find Funding for Your Business: In conjunction with Idox Group, we are delighted to have launched a new grant and funding search tool for businesses and community groups in Westminster. The tool provides a way to identify, apply for and manage available funding opportunities more easily by putting everything you need in one place. It’s supported by a dedicated team of experts who verify and report on thousands of funding sources every day, including charitable trusts, societies, research councils, government, EU and corporate sponsors. Introductory training sessions are available: For further information, please email externalfundingteam@westminster.gov.uk.
An e-cargo bike making deliveries in London
Apply for e-Cargo Bike Funding: Applications are now being accepted for e-cargo bike grant funding, provided by the Energy Saving Trust. The grant covers funding for up to 40% of the total cost of an e-cargo bike, up to a maximum of £2,500 for two-wheel models and £4,500 for three-wheel models. Individuals and organisations that have been operating for less than one year are generally not eligible, but please read the full eligibility criteria carefully. The deadline for applications is 14 December.
Make the Most of London Business Week:The London Business Hub has announced a full programme of free virtual and in-person events at next week’s London Business Week (12 to 15 October). The programme covers themes such as:
  • Growing your business and brand
  • Going net zero – and why!
  • Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace
  • Access to finance and funding
Download more details on next week’s events here.
Support for Your Business
Small shop 'Open' sign
Goldman Sachs Grant Opportunity: The Goldman Sachs Foundation’s ‘10,000 Small Businesses’ programme helps UK small businesses and social enterprise leaders lay the foundation for long-term sustainable growth and job creation in their communities. Designed by world-leading experts in entrepreneurial education, the programme is a series of 100-hour, practical business and management sessions. The deadline for application is 22 October and you can apply via the Goldman Sachs website.
Amazon Small Business Accelerator: Amazon is providing this free online educational program for anyone starting a new, online business or looking to grow an existing one. By joining the programme, applicants can access a bundle of business offers worth more than £2,000. They can also get a free card reader from Square, 20% discount on hardware from Dell, discounted insurance from Direct Line and more. The tailored curriculum covers website building, selling online, social media, marketing, managing cashflow, selling on Amazon, and identifying growth opportunities. Get more details on the programme here.
FSB Small Business Virtual Conference – The Journey to Net Zero: As the COP26 climate talks take place in the UK this November, it is the perfect opportunity to explore the significant role small businesses will play in the transition to Net Zero. Join the National Federation of Self Employed & Small Businesses on Tuesday 2 November, from 10am to 3.30pm, for a free conference to find out what’s in it for you.
Boost Your International Trade: Applications are open for the Mayor’s International Business Programme which provides access to businesses, mentors, partners and international trade missions. This free 12-month programme provides world-class support and advice for your international business success, including bespoke, on-the-ground support in your key global markets.
Free Support for SDG-Related Businesses: Impact Cohort is a three-month accelerator programme dedicating an entire cohort to mission-driven businesses working to, or aligned with, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Participants will benefit from a full range of support services, such as access to mentors, workshops and impartial business advice. Additionally, the programme will cover themes such as ethical supply chains, measuring your impact, social investment and governance. Find out more here.
Be Part of the re/Start Programme: Amazon Web Services re/Start, Westminster Employment Service and Westminster Adult Education Service are working together to build an inclusive and diverse global pipeline of new fully-trained cloud computing professionals. We’re focusing on helping unemployed and underemployed individuals to launch entry-level careers into this fast-moving and important area of technology. As an employer, you can get involved by observing classes, speaking to groups, meeting with potential candidates, and participating in local events, all while increasing your potential recruitment pool. Get in touch with Joseph Ikusika for more details.
For more information to advise and support your business, Westminster City Council, the UK Government and the community can help:
Whilst we are dealing with a greater volume of queries than usual, if you need bespoke advice, don’t hesitate to contact our Business Unit to get appropriate help.
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